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Towing Laws in Connecticut

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Reviewed by Daniel Richardson

Know your rights: towing regulations, maximum fees, and consumer protections in Connecticut (CT).

Max Tow Fee

DMV cap for private-property tows under 10,000 lbs: $130.63 base in 2026, incl. first 2 miles ($136.51 in 2027, $142.65 in 2028); police tows differ

Max Storage Fee

DMV cap (vehicles under 20 ft): $30.00/day indoors for days 1-5, then $37.00; outdoor rates lower; first eight hours free if a tow charge was made

Signage Required

Yes

Police Notification

Required

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Key Towing Laws in Connecticut

Rate Regulation

Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles sets maximum towing and storage rates that all licensed operators must follow.

Licensing Requirements

All tow operators must be licensed by the state and carry minimum insurance coverage.

Vehicle Release Rights

Owners can retrieve vehicles during business hours upon presenting proper documentation and payment.

Abandoned Vehicle Timeline

Vehicles unclaimed for 15+ days may be processed as abandoned after proper notification.

Notification & Signage Requirements

Police Notification

For an unauthorized private-property tow, the tower must notify the local police or resident state trooper within two hours.

Signage Requirements

Lots must post tow signs at each entrance saying cars may be towed, the fees, and the tower's contact or a number to find the car (homes with four or fewer units are exempt).

Your Rights in Connecticut

  • Right to regulated maximum tow and storage rates
  • Right to retrieve vehicle during business hours
  • Right to personal property access without charge
  • Right to an itemized receipt
  • Right to file DMV complaints against licensed operators

How to File a Complaint in Connecticut

Complaint Agency

If you believe you were unfairly towed or overcharged, file a complaint with:

Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles

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Steps to File a Complaint:

  1. Document everything: take photos of signage, your parking location, vehicle condition, and all receipts.
  2. Note the date, time, tow company name, driver name, and truck number if available.
  3. To file a formal complaint, contact the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles.
  4. Consider filing in small claims court if you believe you are owed money for an illegal or improper tow.

Official Sources & Legal References

The fees and rules on this page are drawn from these primary sources - official statutes, administrative codes, and state regulator schedules. We link them so you can verify every figure yourself.

Regulated by Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles.

Last reviewed by Daniel Richardson against Connecticut's official state statutes and regulator schedules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the maximum towing fees in Connecticut?
Connecticut DMV regulates tow rates. Standard non-consensual tow rates are approximately $172 for the first 5 miles. Storage fees are regulated at approximately $30-$50 per day depending on vehicle size.
How do I file a towing complaint in Connecticut?
Contact the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles to file a complaint against a licensed towing company. You can also reach out to the Attorney General Consumer Protection Division for billing disputes.
Is there a grace period for towing in Connecticut?
If you return to your vehicle before the tow truck has hooked up your car, the company cannot charge you. Once the vehicle is hooked, a reduced drop fee may apply if you arrive before the truck departs.

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